If you’re struggling to keep up with energy bills or have fallen into arrears, there are several schemes and grants that could help you.
Winter Fuel Payments
How it works
If you’ve reached State Pension age and your income is under £35,000, you could get a one-off annual payment of between £100 – £300 to help with heating costs during winter.
How to apply
Apply through GOV.UK. You must be living in England or Wales to qualify for a Winter Fuel Payment.
Cold Weather Payments
How it works
You may receive a payment automatically if you’re on certain benefits and there’s a period of very cold weather in your area. Payments are made between 1 November and 31 March when the temperature is below zero for seven consecutive days.
How to apply
You don’t need to apply. If you qualify payments are made automatically.
Fuel Vouchers
How it works
If you use a prepayment meter and are struggling to top up, you may qualify for a fuel voucher (sent by text, email or letter) to add credit to your gas card or electricity key.
How to apply
Contact your energy supplier directly and follow their application process.
Energy Supplier Grants
How it works
Many energy suppliers offer hardship grants to help customers in debt, including:
- British Gas Energy Trust
- Scottish Power Hardship Fund
- OVO Energy Fund
- ON / E.ON Next Energy Fund
- EDF Energy Customer Support Fund
- Octopus Assist Fund
How to apply
Contact your energy supplier directly and follow their application process.
Warm Home Discount Scheme
How it works
Claim £150 off your electricity bill between October and March (not paid to you directly – it’s deducted from your bill).
How to apply
You may qualify if you or your partner are named on the electricity bill and receive one of these benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Income-related ESA or JSA
- Income Support
- Housing Benefit
- Pension Credit
Providers usually open applications from late September each year.
Energy Company Obligation (ECO)
How it works
Helps make energy-saving home improvements, such as insulation, boiler repairs or replacements.
How to apply
To be eligible, you must live in private housing and receive one of these benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Guarantee or Savings Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based JSA or ESA
- Child Benefit
- Housing Benefit
Contact your local council to see if your supplier takes part in the ECO scheme.
Extra Tips
- Contact your energy supplier early if you’re struggling – they can set up affordable repayment plans.
- Your local council may also have extra funding through the Household Support Fund to help with utility costs.
- You can speak to PayPlan for confidential advice if energy debts are affecting your wider budget.
Remember, if you’re unable to keep up with repayments, our team are here and ready to help.